Louisville Independent Observer - LIO

01/07/2026

Friday marks one year since we started this little experiment. The challenges have been many, trying to balance working to live and maintaining Louisville Independent. I'd love to see it grow, and have had a few new writers approach me to help with that. Fingers crossed, I can raise the revenue to hire them.

My goals this year include trying to personally draft more profiles and editorials, while maintaining the balance I didn't have in my previous editorial life.

My goals this year include drafting more profiles and editorials personally, while maintaining the balance I lacked in my previous editorial life.

I'm a local writer with a passion for my community and the arts. I started Louisville Independent Observer because I was frustrated with news about my community, and decisions about that news coming f

01/07/2026

Tailspin Ale Fest is coming soon to Bowman Field...save the date

"Featuring 250+ craft beers from all across the nation, cigar lounge, live music, bourbon bar, silent disco, and more!
Ticket Options & Prices:
Coach (General Admission): $60 - General Admission at 3pm. Souvenir beer cup. Samples from all participating vendors.
First Class (VIP): Reg $90 – Limited to 600 tickets.
One hour early entry admission at 2pm. Special VIP souvenir beer cup. Food truck voucher. VIP Gift. Samples from all participating vendors.
DD: $15 – Admission to event. Does not include any alcohol sampling."

01/07/2026

Michael Ray takes on the implications of Trump's ties to Putin after the strike on Venezuela and the kidnapping of the country's leadership.

01/06/2026

And one more, Save this Date

Clash of the Cocktails returns on Tuesday, February 10, 6–9pm at Galaxie Bar (732 E. Market) with Ilegal Mezcal.

"We’re bringing Louisville’s boldest bartenders to the main stage. Watch as they shake, stir, and shred their way through a rock-inspired cocktail battle. Expect wild pours, signature riffs, and drinks worthy of a stadium tour.
Your ticket includes a complimentary Galaxie Margarita, delicious small bites, and the chance to sample every competitor’s cocktail. Additional food and drinks will be available for purchase, and don’t miss our on-site tattoo artists offering live tattoos throughout the event!
We’ll be naming both a Judge’s Choice and a People’s Choice winner, each taking home $500. Guests get to cast their votes for the top cocktail, and we’ll also award prizes for Second Place and Best Table Decorations."

01/06/2026

Today's the day to save the date.

"The 15th annual Louisville Arcade Expo is back in 2026 for 3 days of retro gaming goodness!
Featuring 100s of pinball and arcade games - including favorites such as Pinbot, Addams Family, Donkey Kong, Ms. Pac-man, Galaga, Street Fighter II, and many more."

Triple Crown Pavilion
1780 Plantside Dr

01/06/2026

Portal (1512 Portland Ave.) is planning something quite cool for June. Local punks be on notice.

01/05/2026

The Pearle School of Burlesque is excited to showcase the work of its students on Saturday, Jan. 10, at Art Sanctuary (1433 S. Shelby St.).

01/05/2026

Let's meet at the Dog Haus Biergarten (415 Bank St., New Albany) on Friday, Jan. 9, for a bit of Stranger Things Trivia. Arrive Early!!

01/05/2026

The Trump Administration invaded Venezuela, kidnapped its president, claiming the operation was about drug trafficking and oil.

01/03/2026

In case you didn't hear us the first time, let's make 2026 kinder, gentler, and vastly more humane.

01/03/2026

"Join Louisville City Council member Shameka Parrish-Wright for her 49th Birthday Brunch & Special Announcement 🎂 🥳 🎉
📅 Saturday, January 3rd
⏰ 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 The B.A. Colonial
818 W Kenwood Dr, Louisville, KY 40214"

Could this be about her next move in local politics?

01/03/2026

Louisville Independent Political Cartoonist Michael Ray sends us into a new year with his latest. Like Ray, we are ready for 2025 to take a hike.

Louisville Independent Political Cartoonist Michael Ray gives his take on 2025, and what a wild year it has been in America.